2016 Rail and Road - September Edition

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VOLUME 108 No.3 September 2016

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RAILROAD THE MAGAZINE OF THE NSW BRANCH OF THE RAIL, TRAM & BUS UNION

Industrial Action to Progress ARTC EA

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NSW Branch NSW BraNch

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Head Office Level 4, 321 Pitt Street, head Office Sydney NSW 2000

Level4, Pitt Street, Tel (02) 321 92642511 Sydney NSW 2000 Fax (02) 92611342 Tel (02) 92642511 Email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au Website www.rtbuexpress.com.au Fax (02)92611342 Email Bus nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au and Tram Division 83-89 Renwick Street Website www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au Redfern NSW 2016 Tel (02) 93197277 Bus and Tram Division Fax (02) 93194341 83-89 renwick Street Email info@rtbu-nswbus.asn.au

redfern NSW 2016

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33 Gordon Avenue, Sydney NSW 2000 Hamilton NSW 2303 Tel 92643400 Tel (02) (02) 4961 4311 Fax (02) 4961 92647679 4779 Email newcastle@rtbu-nsw.asn.au nswloco@rtbu-nsw.asn.au

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Fax (02) 4961 4779 Secretary Alex Claassens President Joanne McCallum Assistant Secretary (Road) David Woollams Wollongong Office Assistant Secretary (Rail) R obert Hayden Level 1, 306a crown Street, Wollongong, 2500

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Organisers David Woollams Newcastle Organisers Wollongong

RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram RAIL & ROAD is the official journal of the NSW Branch of the Rail, Tram and and Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication Bus Union and is produced as part of the union’s communication strategy strategy to inform and report on matters of interest to members. to inform and report on matters of interest to members. All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Peter O’Connor Telephone: 0430 188 116 e-mail: poconnor@rtbu-nsw.asn.au All editorial and advertising inquiries should be addressed to Peter Printing - Brightset, Banksmeadow, (02) 9316 4800 O’Connor Telephone: (02)- 9264 2511 e-mail: poconnor@rtbu-nsw.asn.au Art & Design - P Design proberson@hotmail.com - Phone 0402 032 949

Officials

Branchwollongong@rtbu-nsw.asn.au Secretary Email Alex Claassens

Mick Schmitzer

John curley Wollongong John Curley Frieght Organiser Steve Wright Freight Organisers Steve Wright Branch Organisers Brendan Edghill Kevin Pryor Paul Douglas Passenger Organiser Bob Newham BobJessica haydenEpps Lead Organisers Branch Organisers Lizanne Bennett Phillip Kessey Helen Bellette Doug Klineberg Mick Cartwright Lizanne Bennett Graham Fozzard Luke Hayden Education Officer Maryanne Stuart Communications Peter O’Connor Industrial OfficerOfficer Peter O’connor


From the Branch Secretary This issue of the journal will detail a number of developments in key areas of the industry, from continued fall-out from the Asciano takeover by Brookfield, to new EA negotiations in Pacific National, to Aurizon’s latest job loss announcements, the ongoing debate over privatisation of Newcastle public transport services, the Sydney Trains reform saga, the recent ARTC industrial actions, and many more issues that continue to dog our union and our industry. Privatisation of transport services remains at the top of the agenda. While the government pushes ahead with its tendering for an ‘integrated’ Newcastle transport system, despite even private companies publicly questioning the sense and cost-effectiveness of such a move, we are hearing increasingly more announcements on privatisation of a wide range of transport services and infrastructure. Similarly, concerns are being raised about the NSW Government decision to tender the design and manufacture of the new intercity train fleet to South Korea, rather than use this opportunity to provide local short and long term employment.

Since the last issue of Rail & Road, a Federal election has come and gone, with the Turnbull Government being returned by a slim majority, and a very interesting mix of independents and others in the Senate. A particularly positive note of this election is that Labor ran a very strong campaign and managed to win back a significant number of seats lost in the previous election. At a recent UnionsNSW meeting, Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten thanked the union movement for its critical role in the election campaign. In particular, I would also like to acknowledge the work of many RTBU activists in the election, especially through the Better Future and Fix My Ride Campaigns. On the industrial front, our Tram and Bus members have been able to take successful industrial action to both progress the new light rail enterprise agreement, as well as use actions in Newcastle, including no fare and no uniform days, to force the NSW government back to the table to discuss details of their Newcastle transport plans. In rail, members would be aware that the RTBU with the Combined Rail unions

took a series of industrial actions in an attempt to progress the ARTC enterprise agreement. This issue of the journal provides details of some of the dirty tricks, misinformation, and intervention by Federal ministers, which all helped muddy the waters and create considerable confusion among employees. While the unions ran a strong ‘No Vote’ campaign, these other factors contributed to the EA being voted up by a very small majority of employees. We have other EAs with ARTC coming up, and will continue to fight to preserve members existing conditions, and to attempt to get some honest answers from management and the Federal government about future plans to sell off ARTC. We also have a new round of negotiations coming up with Pacific National on new enterprise agreements across the various business groups, as well as with some other major operators. We don’t expect any of these negotiations to be simple or straightforward, but we do expect fair and reasonable outcomes for our members. Achieving these outcomes will be the focus of these negotiations.

In this Issue Industrial News Unions Take Protected Industrial Action on ARTC EA. . . . . . . . 4 Federal Government’s Intervention in ARTC Negotiations. . . . . 6 Sydney Trains Reform. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Industrial Notes Light Rail EA Win . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Pacific National EA Negotiations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 RTBU Guards Score Another Victory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 TfNSW Salaries and Conditions of Employment Award. . . . . . 10 ARTC NSW Infrastructure Maintenance EA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 General News Weekend Penalty Rates Decision Imminent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Tour of Newcastle for Private Operators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Guards Cook Up Storm for NAIDOC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Rail Safety Week. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Blue Mountains MP Thanks Frontline Train Staff . . . . . . . . . . 17 Aurizon Cannibalises Core Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Libs Should Come Clean on Privatisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 South Coast Icon Retires After 57 Years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Campaign Trail Fix MY Ride Campaign Makes Its Mark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Women’s Campaign Committee Survey Results . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Safety Matters Injured Workers Plaque Unveiling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Whistlestop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25


Industrial News Union Industrial Actions Taken to Progress ARTC EA Negotiations Members of the Combined Unions (the RTBU, the ETU, Professionals Australia (APESMA) and the ASU) who are covered by the ARTC NSW Enterprise Agreement voted in July to authorise access to lawful and protected industrial action via the protected action ballot (PAB) process. A strong majority of members voted to approve access to all 18 actions listed on the ballot. After 18 months of negotiations, with extensive delays caused by ARTC’s reliance on the Federal Government’s Workplace Bargaining Policy (which we now know does not restrict ARTC from agreeing on items in our Log of Claims), union members stood up and demanded a fair outcome – calling on ARTC to negotiate a fair and equitable EA. Bargaining with ARTC continued during this time. The Combined Unions and our members were seeking that the ARTC NSW EA includes: • Protections in the event of privatisation and/or the closure of regional centres including: • protecting policy-based entitlements in the EA: eg current sick leave entitlements, because policybased entitlements are removed or changed when companies are privatised • improved redundancy and redeployment protections • Protect employees who want to stay on the EA • Address safety issues: • reasonable access to meal and toilet breaks for Network Controllers Guaranteed 10 hour minimum break between finishing and starting work to manage fatigue • A better pay deal, including back pay • Fair processes in the EA – like those seen in hundreds of other EAs both within the public and private sectors, in rail and in other industries: • fair rostering principles • improved dispute resolution • Equity in allowances and penalty rates: • equity between EAs within ARTC and equity with industry standards • fair access to payment for on call, call backs and payment for overtime worked • Consultation - We need strong and enforceable consultative provisions so as to protect your employment.

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Industrial Action Members of the combined unions (RTBU, ETU, ASU and Professionals Australia) took industrial action in August, and set up a well attended picket line outside ARTC in Newcastle. During the time of the picket line and industrial actions, the company ran media campaigns, and a series of misinformation aimed at ARTC members, to discredit the union actions and to push their proposed EA, which had been previously rejected by employees. Dirty Tricks Result in Members Voting in Favour of New EA Despite the industrial actions organised by the Combined Unions, information sessions, and planned future actions to progress the ARTC EA process, and a strong ‘Vote No’ campaign by the unions, a vote of 486 Australian Rail Track Corporation employees on the Enterprise Agreement received a narrow majority yes vote, by just 18 votes. As a result of the vote, members were required to return to normal work practices, with all bans and industrial actions to cease. We wish to acknowledge the strength and solidarity of the members of the Combined Unions in fighting for a better deal. You sacrificed a lot to stand up for yourselves and your fellow workers. The union will continue to fight hard in upcoming EA negotiations for other ARTC workers to deliver stronger job protections for our members. Fear mongering and pressure from ARTC and the federal government put employees in an unfair position. In the end, their tricky tactics worked. Unions have been fighting to enshrine into the EA a number of policies that face being stripped away should ARTC be privatised. This vote mattered because a number of the conditions that ARTC workers enjoy now are not part of the enterprise agreement and only exist in changeable workplace policies that will disappear if the government goes ahead with the privatisation of the company. The union calls on ARTC to publicly confirm that all conditions and entitlements will be protected in any restructure or privatisation. These negotiations were also marked by the unprecedented and extraordinary intervention by two Federal Government Ministers, and shows that they will do anything to ensure their plans to fatten up the ARTC goose to sell it off for $4 billion aren’t stopped. See the related story below.

RAIL & ROAD September 2016

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Federal Government’s Extraordinary Intervention in ARTC Negotiations RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva and NSW Branch Secretary Alex Claassens wrote to all members involved in the recent Enterprise Agreement dispute with ARTC in NSW, expressing their concern about the "extraordinary and unprecedented" interventions from two Federal Cabinet Minister during the dispute with ARTC, and what this means for the future of ARTC. “Over the past week we have had a taste of what it feels like to be standing between Federal Government Ministers and a bucket of money. Two senior Federal Government ministers have now intervened in the ARTC NSW enterprise negotiations.”

cause inconvenience to the public and business," she said. The ARTC took up the Minister's suggestion to circulate the letter to employees ahead of a vote on an offer put forward by management, which is being opposed by rail unions. Management were only offering pay rises of 2% this time, while members wanted an increase of 4%

Significantly, Mr Chester confirmed the Federal Government is proceeding with “market testing” for private sector involvement in ARTC work – and worse still - refused to take the opportunity to rule out the whole-scale privatisation of the entire ARTC business. RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva said that ARTC was refusing to include "basic work conditions" in its proposed enterprise agreement with employees had "blown the whistle" on a future sell-off.

“Over the past week we have had a taste of what it feels like to be standing between Federal Government Ministers and a bucket of money”

Employment Minister Michaelia Cash intervened in the bargaining standoff at the Australian Rail Track Corporation, accusing rail unions of misleading their members ahead of the EA ballot . The Minister wrote to the ARTC chief executive John Fullerton to stress that the corporation's employees are covered by the government's public sector wages policy, which caps annual pay rises at 2%. Cash said a recent RTBU bulletin to members wrongly stated the ARTC was not covered by the broader government bargaining policy. "It is disappointing that some union officials are using misinformation to encourage members to take protected industrial action and

which we have always achieved previously. In addition to that we were seeking assurances on pay and conditions if the ARTC is privatised. In her letter, Cash argued that an annual pay rise of 2% was an "affordable and competitive wage increase in the current fiscal environment". "The recent CPI result of 1% in the year to June 2016 further demonstrates that the wage offer is reasonable," she said. At the same time the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Darren Chester MP also attacked workers in a press release.

"The Federal Government is fattening the ARTC goose, ready for privatisation, by starving its workers of their pay and conditions," Nanva said. "ARTC workers are not mushrooms – they know the Federal Government has been preparing ARTC for sale, and they want to ensure their existing conditions are protected." The intervention by the Federal Government Ministers came after a series of industrial actions had been taken by the unions, with further actions flagged. RTBU National Secretary, Bob Nanva has warned of more industrial action to come, saying there were "several other ARTC enterprise agreements coming up, so this is the first sign of things to come". "We will be fighting tooth and nail to protect the jobs and conditions of our members in regional and rural Australia, and to stop this deceitful government from selling off our national railways."

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When It Matters

SYDNEY PARRAMATTA NEWCASTLE CANBERRA WOLLONGONG CAMPBELLTOWN


Sydney Trains Reform Members are advised that after a break of approximately 5 months Sydney Trains has recommenced the discussions on the Clause 12 reform items although Sydney Trains now wants to focus on work package 2 (EA Clause 12.2) Which covers Rostering and Working Arrangements. An initial meeting occurred on the 9/8/16 at which the Company gave a very brief overview on why there had been such a delay and also that they now had a proposition which has been signed off/approved by the Minister and Government to put to the RTBU on a package of reforms. Sydney Trains advised us that as far as Sydney Trains was concerned they no longer wanted to discuss work package 1 (clause 12.1 of the EA) which covered the aggregation of allowances / simplified pay as the proposed payroll system is not able to deal with the complexities of existing payroll / allowance entitlements. We made it clear that whilst that may be the position of Sydney Trains it may not be the view of the RTBU and we would respond after discussion with and feedback from Delegates and Members in regards to achieving an aggregated wage and or consolidate allowances/payment outcome. The RTBU advised Sydney Trains that: • O ur position had not changed from the detailed proposal we gave them earlier this year as developed by Delegates and endorsed by members.

• B efore we even could consider their package of reforms we would require the full document/ proposition and then time to consider the detail and the impacts, Sydney Trains agreed that they would be in a position to provide details of their proposition to us on Thursday 10/8/16. At the meeting on the 10/8 Sydney Trains gave a brief overview of their proposition and after some initial general discussion left to allow the RTBU time to consider their proposition and the parties met again on the 23/8/16 for RTBU initial feedback. We have agreed to set Tuesday's and Thursday's aside as required for further discussions. It has been agreed that a combined Delegates meeting will be arranged (subject to the outcome of discussions) for Delegates to provide guidance on how we should proceed based on what had been previously endorsed by Delegates and Members. Members will be advised of any discussions as they occur and when depot meetings are arranged to brief and get feedback/comment from members on the Sydney Trains/Governments proposition. Unless you hear it and or see it in writing from the union, it is probably a rumour. You shouldn’t hesitate to contact your delegate, the Divisional Office and/or send an email to the dedicated RTBU Member email address: sydneytrainsreform@rtbu-nsw.asn.au.

A Win on Journey Accident Insurance for Sydney Trains and Trainlink Members As part of the 2014 Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink Enterprise Agreements, the RTBU as part of the Combined Rail Unions negotiated a clause to provide self-funded journey to work insurance. The negotiated deal has now been finalised with Management and the Government for journey cover for just $2.70 per fortnight. Journey cover protects you by compensating you for injury and disability that may occur during travel from home to work.

While previously this had been a protection for all residents of NSW, recent changes by the Liberal State Government have stripped it away, leaving many workers out in the cold if the worst happens during their commute to work. Cover will apply from 1 October, for less than the cost of a cup of coffee each fortnight. We have had it confirmed by the ATO they have granted journey cover tax deductability status – meaning you can claim back 60% of the already reasonable costs.

Get on the Bus Express! Bus Express is constantly updated with new information from around the depots – including workplace disputes, industry updates and news about RTBU Members. Members who subscribe to the web site get a fortnightly email with links to all the latest scoops. Printed newsletters will also be distributed around depots.

www.busexpress.com.au


Industrial Notes

Light Rail EA win Following a series of industrial actions by light rail drivers, private operator Transdev has provided drivers with a new Enterprise Agreement that addresses a number of concerns raised by the union and workers. Drivers and the union were concerned that the safety of commuters was already being put

at serious risk by crowded carriages and unrealistic turnaround times, only made worse by the company also trying to increase driver shift limits and decrease break times as part of the current enterprise agreement negotiations. After a nouniform day, a four hour stoppage, and a 24-hour stoppage, Transdev

Pacific National EA Negotiations The RTBU has been corresponding with Pacific National in an attempt to start negotiations on your next Enterprise Agreement. Pacific National and the RTBU both applied for scope orders earlier in the year and have since been in correspondence with each other on the matter. In an offer of good faith and from member feedback, the RTBU has written to PN in July and proposed the following: The Intermodal train Crew EA scope stay as is. The Victorian Agreement only cover employees who are based and predominantly work in Victoria. The Company is pushing heavily for removal of NSW based employees from the Victorian Agreement. If this occurs we want to make sure that these employees are not worse off. Therefore we are

seeking that if these employees are transferred to the new NSW Agreement then they are salary maintained. The NSW Coal and Bulk Agreement to be merged into one new agreement and cover Train Crew, Terminal Operators and Administrative Supervisory Technical and Professional Employees. The current Coal Maintainers – talks will continue to establish an outcome, acknowledging it is the current employees preference to remain in the coal agreement. We will continue to negotiate with Pacific National - however if we fail to reach an agreement the matter is listed before the Fair Work Commission on 19th August 2016 in order to set a Hearing date. Members will continue to be kept informed via National and State-based Newsflashes as developments occur.

RAIL & ROAD September 2016

agreed to union demands, and took unsafe shift increases off the table and agreed to add additional services during peak times. A ballot was held on Friday 19th August, 2016 with members deciding unanimously to accept the EA.

Government Comes Back to the Table After Union Pressure With the NSW Government refusing to talk to workers in Newcastle with information about the privatisation of the bus service drivers were forced to take industrial action. Passengers were greeted by drivers in plain clothes and were not asked to pay for a ticket or tap their OPAL card. Drivers are getting a raw deal from a government that cares more about making a profit than looking after people or providing services. Drivers just want to be able to do what they do best – providing a quality service for passengers – but the government is making that impossible by withholding information about drivers futures. The industrial action had the desired effect with the government calling the union early in the morning and agreeing to return to the table and speak with workers. Thank you to all the drivers who took part by wearing their best sports outfit to work, and giving a fare free morning to commuters. This sort of action makes passengers pay attention to our cause and opens discussions with the public about the poor treatment of workers by the government.

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RTBU Train Guards Score Another Victory RTBU Train Guards are on a roll. Fresh out of a win with restoring Practice Drives for Train Guards. The Guards Sub-Division has clocked up another victory. The RTBU was contacted by one of our members from NSW Trains. The Train Guard was expected to work the train without being first aid qualified. This is contrary to the essential requirement for Trains Guards to have a current first aid certification.

Transport for NSW Salaries and Conditions of Employment Award Finalised After some considerable negotiations for a new Transport for NSW Salaries and Conditions of Employment Award were completed in July. Agreement was reached on a new Award, which came into effect on 1 July 2016 and will operate for a period of one year, expiring on 30 June 2017. Accordingly, salaries and salary related allowances increased by 2.5% on 1 July 2016. Adjustments to pay were to be implemented by the second pay period in July 2016. TfNSW proposed changes in relation to shiftwork options at the Transport Management Centre (TMC) and temporary employment conditions, which were to be addressed in the Award and in policy. However, following extensive negotiations over eight meetings, the parties were unable to reach agreement on the proposed changes. TfNSW and the Combined Unions subsequently reached an agreement to establish the new Award with no further changes, other than previously agreed amendments relating to the TMC reform. It should be noted that the assistance provided and the participation of Delegates in these negotiations was invaluable and very much appreciated.

In addition, we uncovered that there was a significant number of Train Guards that weren’t certified in first aid. As a consequence, NSW Trains had to run urgent training over the weekend to ensure that NSW Trains’ Guards were correctly qualified. In the event that members have any comments or questions please contact your local Delegate or the RTBU Office.

Southern Shorthaul Railway Enterprise Agreement 2016 The Southern Shorthaul Enterprise Agreement is nearly up for renewal and as such a survey was sent out to all members for their feed back and what changes they would like to see within the new Enterprise Agreement. There was an overwhelming response from members and as part of the survey, members were asked to mark in order of preference the priorities from 10 separate issues. Your responses are highlighted in the below graph with the most important issue as identified by members having the lower point score, which show Rostering, Working Conditions and Wage Increases being the top 3 items.

Also as part of the survey members were asked what changes they would like to see within the new Enterprise Agreement with this information being compiled into A Log of Claims and sent back to members for endorsement. After being endorsed by members, an initial meeting was arranged with management to discuss the Log of Claims with this meeting occurring on the 11th August 2016. The meeting lasted a couple of hours as we went through each Log of Claim to make sure that the Company understood each claim and the reasons why the proposed changes where needed and important to members. No formal offer of a wage increase has been discussed by the RTBU or the company at this stage of discussions. At this stage the Company have not put any of their own claims on the table.

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ARTC NSW Infrastructure Maintenance Enterprise Agreement The RTBU Infrastructure Division alongside the RTBU National Office will be beginning Enterprise Bargaining negotiations for the ARTC NSW Infrastructure Maintenance Enterprise Agreement 2016 next month.

ARTC recently managed to get a majority Yes vote on the NSW 2016 Enterprise Agreement. The last round of negotiations for the Enterprise Agreement showed the challenges RTBU Infrastructure

Maintenance members within ARTC will face. We have been gearing up for these negotiations for some time, in preparation to move the NSW Infrastructure Maintenance EA into an ARTC National EA that

covers Infrastructure Maintenance employees in every state of Australia. Frequent communication will be sent out to members covered by this EA via email as new information becomes available.

Taylor Rail Enterprise Agreement The RTBU Infrastructure Division have been in EA negotiations with Taylor Rail since October 2015. These negotiations have not gone as smoothly as they have in the past with the company. The main item of discussion during these negotiations has been moving the members from a Monday - Friday roster to a Monday - Sunday roster. A change such as this to members rosters will have an extreme impact on their take home pay and personal/worklife balance. The position the members took was that if this roster has to be implemented then they would like to be compensated for the loss in wages they would receive by this change. The company offered a pay rise of 3.0% with a rostering proposal that would see members losing hundreds of dollars a week even with a 3.0% increase to their wages. The feedback from this offer by the members was extremely negative and was conveyed to the company by the RTBU representatives. The company ignored this feedback and put the EA to a vote. The vote was a 100% No by the members. Due to unity shown by the members and the overwhelming show of strength, the company have come back to the negotiation table with the RTBU officials and negotiations are continuing.

Proud to Be UNION

Penalty Rates

My union fought for my Penalty Rates * ... And Won! * Penalty rates have been a part of Australia's social and economic fabric for more than 100 years. In 1909 Justice Higgins awarded penalty payments at time-and-a-half of ordinary payments for work on the seventh day in any week, an official holiday, and work in excess of the shift length, both to compensate workers and to restrict employers using long or abnormal hours. This was reaffirmed almost forty years later by the Commonwealth Conciliation and Arbitration Commission, setting penalty rates at 125% for Saturday work and double time for Sunday work. The principle was again affirmed in the modern award objective under the Fair Work Amendment Act (2013). As a nation, we've said that working outside regular hours, employers must compensate workers for unsociable hours.

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General News Weekend penalty rates decision imminent The Fair Work Commission's much-anticipated ruling on weekend penalty rates is likely to be brought down in September, according to Australia's biggest employer group. The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has told members in a CEO update that the Commission will have to make the ruling by September 13 to meet its own timeliness benchmarks.

PROTECT OUR PENALTY RATES

ACCI chief executive James Pearson told members that the decision was "keenly awaited by employers and workers after the Coalition and the Labor Party said they would honour the ruling of the Commission". "The Commission has yet to confirm the timing of the release of its decision...but under its self-imposed benchmarks about the timing of the handing down of decisions, 90% of all reserved decisions are to be delivered within eight weeks and 100% within 12 weeks. "The penalty rates hearings concluded in April and submissions were lodged up to June 21. If the Commission meets its timeliness benchmark, the decision will be issued by no later than September 13." While anticipating a ruling, the ACCI also said the fouryearly review of modern awards would "continue well into next year". ACTU Claims Federal Government has No Mandate for IR Reforms Meanwhile, ACCI has rejected the ACTU claim that the re-elected Turnbull government has "no mandate" for changes to Australia's workplace laws. ACCI's Pearson said the union movement was "in denial" given the government was re-elected in a double dissolution poll triggered by two pieces of workplace relations legislation. The ACTU has vowed to work with the new Senate crossbench to thwart the re-elected Turnbull Government's IR agenda. ACTU president Ged Kearney congratulated Senator Michaelia Cash on retaining the Employment portfolio, but argued the Coalition had "no mandate for major and adverse industrial relations changes".

Kearney argued that the Minister failed to provide a detailed IR policy during the campaign and refused to release a formal response to the Productivity Commission’s report on workplace relations. "The ACTU will work with crossbenchers in the Senate to ensure they understand these bills are dangerous and deeply unfair to working Australians," she said. "The government’s only industrial relations agenda for the past three years has been pro big business, but Australians want the new government to stop the same old anti-worker rhetoric and partner with unions to create jobs, champion education and training, and turn around the disturbing levels of youth unemployment." In reply, Minister Cash said that the ACTU response was "disappointing, yet hardly surprising". She said the Coalition has already announced plans to: • re-establish the ABCC; • create a Registered Organisations Commission; • stamp out workplace corruption, such as requiring disclosure of secret payments; protect vulnerable workers, including those exploited by franchises; • protect owner-driver truckies and volunteer firefighters. The Minister said the re-elected government would have five workplace reform bills to put to the Parliament. "This is a substantial reform agenda by any measure."

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Asciano split shows Australia is not open for business The final confirmation of the breakup of Asciano and Pacific National shows that Federal Government is failing on important economic reforms, according to the Rail, Tram and Bus Union. RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva today said Malcolm Turnbull’s inability to restructure and simplify rail access was costing jobs and investment. “Malcolm Turnbull has completely dropped the ball when it comes to genuine economic reform, and there’s no better example of that than the rail industry,” Mr Nanva said. “The original proposed takeover of

Asciano by Brookfield highlighted the need for a strong regulatory environment to protect competition in the national rail sector, and in particular, the need for a consistent and transparent national rail access regime. “As Dr Ken Henry has noted – interstate rail operators face the nightmare of dealing with six different rail access regulators, each with their own different access regime. This is not a national network, it’s a dog’s breakfast. “But instead of fixing the problem Malcolm Turnbull and Transport Minister Darren Chester simply sat on their hands and watched as Asciano was pulled apart to satisfy

the ACCC. “As a result, an important investment which would have strengthened competition in rail – by creating a powerful integrated national freight company able to compete effectively with the dominant player, Aurizon – has been lost. “And the rail industry is still stuck with six different rail access regimes. “The Australian rail industry needs leadership, vision and action. Instead, the Liberals and Nationals have nothing to offer but slogans and excuses.”

Grand tour for private operators as government continues to ignore Newcastle workers The union wrote to the tenderers to let them know that the government hasn’t been playing fair, and they will be buying a very unhappy workforce if Transport for NSW keeps treating workers like second class citizens. We are encouraging the bidders to put pressure on the government to act now before the sale goes through and it becomes their problem to deal with. The government is trying to keep the transitional package and job guarantee problems quiet so as to not scare the bidders, but the companies who want to run Transport for Newcastle should know what they are getting into. While we have been in conversation with the Government in the Industrial Relations Commission, the union will look to run a full arbitrated case should further consultation fail to yield results for workers.

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Transport for NSW hosted a goodwill tour of depots in July for companies tendering for contracts to operate the privatised Transport for Newcastle, as drivers again had to wear plain clothes to show their displeasure at a lack of support and information coming from government. Despite promises from government to come back to the negotiating table, workers are still getting a raw deal. During our last action in June, Transport for NSW agreed to come back to the table, but in the past months they have again refused to budge on transitional packages and employment guarantees for workers forced to try and get a job with the private providers. The government is happy to show off the goods to prospective buyers, but they aren’t willing to support the workers that privatisation will affect.

UN

ION


RTBU Guards Sub-Division Cook Up Storm for NAIDOC On Thursday 7th July 2016 the Guards Sub-Division fuelled up the BBQ to celebrate NAIDOC and raise much needed funds for the Wall of Hands. The Wall of Hands is a not-forprofit charity that supports remote indigenous literacy and numeracy programs for youth. The celebrations were extended with NSW Trains joining in and complimenting the celebrations by organising the smoking ceremony and assisting greatly on the BBQ.

The ceremony commenced with Uncle Terry performing the Smoking Ceremony. This was followed by the haunting music of the didgeridoo played by Wayne Riley (Sydney Trains Driver – Leppington) and the Welcome to Country address given by Uncle Chicka.

The event was a great success with $1,538.10 being raised which is being followed by a $900 cheque that is to be issued by Sydney Trains. The RTBU Guards Sub-Division would like to thank Kenny Williams, Damien Kuan, Dave Hastie, Craig Turner and NSW Trains.

NSW Trains Volunteers helping out for NAIDOC

Dave and Craig BBQ Duty

Uncle Terry Smoking Ceremony

Page 14 RAIL & ROAD September 2016


Rail Safety Week across Australia Fun community events, police bands and BBQ’s at stations, school competitions, pop up outdoor movie theatres, special police operations/dog squads and a visit from Thomas the Tank Engine are just some of the diverse activities that took place during this year’s annual community awareness week - Rail Safety Week from 15 – 21 August. “Harm prevention charity TrackSAFE, together with 48 rail, police and government organisations from around Australia and New Zealand are proud to celebrate Rail Safety Week 15-21 August,” said Naomi Frauenfelder, Executive Director of the TrackSAFE Foundation. “Now in its 11th successful year, Rail Safety Week draws on research and trends to deliver an internationally recognised annual awareness week. “Rail Safety Week is a multifaceted campaign bringing the important message of rail safety to every layer of the community. There is an obvious need to address the statistics; every year we witness thousands of near hits and trespass incidents, fatalities on the network, as well as illegal behaviour at level crossings and graffiti/vandalism on, or around trains. These incredibly dangerous acts all too often end in tragedy.

lives, and the lives of those around them, are kept out of harm’s way. “Whether crossing at a level crossing, going to work, school, on holiday or visiting family and friends, everyone deserves to be safe around trains and tracks. All deaths or injuries on the rail network are 100 percent avoidable if people simply obey the rules, and are aware and alert at all times. “We all share in the responsibility when it comes to rail safety. I encourage all members of the community to jump online and find out where their nearest Rail Safety Week event is taking off,” said Ms Frauenfelder. As part of the National rail safety week, activities in New South Wales included: • S YDNEY CENTRAL STATIONTrackSAFE with Thomas & Friends, Sunday 14 August & Monday 15 August. Children between the ages of 2 and 5 got to see Thomas & Friends FREE. There were also free concourse activities on offer such as face painting, balloon artists and a drawing/colouring in activity

table - kids also got a chance to meet The Fat Controller. • S YDNEY CENTRAL STATION - Transdev Sydney (Sydney's light rail operators) hosted 'Meet the Manager' during Rail Safety Week. This provided the opportunity to meet senior managers and ask questions about Sydney's light rail services, as well as questions about rail safety. • N SW Police were at numerous stations across metropolitan Sydney, Gosford, Newcastle, Blue Mountains and Wollongong during Rail Safety Week engaging the community in rail safety discussions.

RTBU is All Aboard RTBU Assistant National Secretary Allan Barden said the RTBU was fully committed to supporting both Rail Safety Week and TrackSAFE. "Safety is a critical issue for rail workers, and this is a very important week for spreading the safety message across the industry and the broader public."

“By uniting with rail industry, government, road safety, education and police partners we’re able to deliver a strong voice reminding community members to take ownership and responsibility for their actions in, and around the rail network. “It’s important for every member of the community to respect the safety measures put in place to ensure their

RAIL & ROAD September 2016

Page 15


New Self-Help Support app for Rail Industry Workers Can Help with Stress Designed specifically for rail employees to help combat anxiety, stress and negative thoughts, the new RailRes app offers a menu of stress-busting exercises all in real-time. Train drivers, guards, station staff and other rail industry employees are often the first people on the scene when incidents take place on the network. Witnessing these events can cause severe mental, physical and emotional trauma. This is why the industry came together to found the TrackSAFE Foundation, to provide suicide prevention strategies, tools and advice to help workers feel safe and supported at work. RailRes is the latest addition to TrackSAFE’s suite of support materials. The RailRes app builds on the success of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs High Res app and draws on insights and recommendations from a team of rail employees and representatives from the Rail, Tram and Bus Union. Rail employees can use the app to ‘test’ their response to stress and ‘adjust’ their physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioural reactions to stress. The app provides a range of interactive and easyto-use tools and exercises including progressive muscle relaxation and learning how to challenge and change negative or unhelpful thoughts. The National Secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union, Bob Nanva, says the Rail Res app will help rail industry workers take control of stress and anxiety from the many pressures they are faced with, “working in the transport industry can be highly stressful and demanding, especially in the rail industry where millions of commuters are using the network everyday. Whether it’s a daily battle or an occasional episode, the effects of stress –or even trauma– can take a serious toll on productivity, and more importantly our workers’ health. Fortunately the new RailRes app can bring immediate stress management within easy reach,” Mr Nanva said. The app can be downloaded free via the App store –available on iPhone and Android devices. For more information please visit: http://tracksafefoundation.com.au/railres-app

Page 16 RAIL & ROAD September 2016


ACCC Looking to Extend Reach into Industrail Relations The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission says the alleged cartel behaviour identified by the Heydon Royal Commission in the ACT construction sector might have revealed a way to investigate "additional restrictive behaviour" in the IR arena. The competition regulator says it has multiple "in-depth" secondary boycotts investigations underway, including proceedings against the Victorian branch of the CFMEU over its allegations attempt to pressure the concrete supplier, Boral. The Competition and Consumer Act 2010 has an "IR carve out" in

s51(2)(a) which excludes behaviour and arrangements relating to the "remuneration, conditions of employment, hours of work or working conditions of employees" . However, ACCC chair Rod Sims said in a speech in Brisbane on October 13 that the regulator is rethinking the scope of the "IR carve-out" by considering "additional restrictive behaviour". “It is possible that in the past, the ACCC has not looked sufficiently into such additional restrictive behaviour that could amount to a contract, arrangement or understanding that has the purpose or effect of

substantially lessening competition, thinking such matters were covered by various IR carve outs and exemptions from the CCA.” "The alleged behaviour in Canberra may provide an avenue to do so in the context of investigating the alleged cartel behaviour. The ACCC is progressing this as a priority matter." "This type of alleged conduct can disrupt competitive markets, increase costs and impede productivity. In these circumstances we need to ensure that our competition law applies to such restrictive behaviour as it does to every other sector of the economy," Sims said.

Trish Doyle MP thanks front line train staff It’s great to see Blue Mountains Trish Doyle MP standing up for train staff. She told NSW Parliament recently the trains in this state are hopeless and the Baird Government are shirking their responsibilities to fix the problems. “I thank the front line hard working staff at Sydney Trains, and NSW Trains, NSW Transport, for their efforts. Thank you for your hard work, in the face of funding cuts, incompetent ministerial direction, and a government privatisation agenda that seeks to work the staff ever harder and pay them less and less. Instead of blowing consultancy fees for rebranded stations and grey orange polyester uniforms, the Minister should take the free advice of his own workers.” Trish Doyle also recently condemned the Baird Government for its decision to contract the building of new intercity trains to South Korea, and called on the Government to have the trains designed and purpose built to Australian standards by Australian companies. Well done Trish and we encourage more Members of Parliament to stand up for front line and operational rail staff.

Have You Left the Industry? Retired? If you have left the industry, permanently or for a period, have retired, or are off work due to illness, you must resign, or suspend your union membership, in writing. Our union rules provide that members leaving the union for whatever reason, must do so in writing. If you do not resign in writing, you will continue to be included on our union membership and liable for the dues owing for that time. Please note: Regardless of whether your union dues were paid by direct debit or through payroll deductions, the employer is not authorised to change your membership details after resignation or leaving the union. You must do this personally.

Please contact the membership office at the union on 02 9264 2511 for more information. RAIL & ROAD September 2016

Page 17


Aurizon cannibalises its core business to pay for management mistakes The announcement that Aurizon will cut a further 300 jobs – including 180 train crew - is a bitter pill for workers who have fought hard to keep the company profitable despite the multiple failings of senior executives. The announcement came as Aurizon also disclosed it had completely written off its failed investment in the Aquila Resources. Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) National Secretary Bob Nanva said sacking workers was another short-sighted decision which would impose more long-term costs on shareholders. “It is simply galling that workers are being made to pay the price of the company’s failed mining

investments,” Mr Nanva said. “Shareholders should be concerned that Aurizon is now cannibalising its own core business, and undermining its own future. “Rail workers are highly-trained, and replacing them requires a significant investment – of both time and money. “Further cuts to operational staff will undermine safety and performance, and leave Aurizon unable to respond to the next upswing in the commodities market.” So much for 'Jobs & Growth' Mr Nanva said Aurizon’s woes also reflected a general perception

in the rail industry that the Federal Government had no plan for the rail sector. “Malcolm Turnbull is all talk and no action when it comes to jobs and growth in the sector. “Barnaby Joyce’s much vaunted Inland Rail project still hasn’t even left the station, while the Liberals and Nationals are still planning to move long-distance freight off Australian trains and onto foreign ships. “This uncertainty is killing investment, and killing jobs. “The Federal Government needs to show some leadership and come up with a national plan for rail before more jobs are lost.”

Liberals should come clean with plans to sack drivers and privatise Sydney Trains An Daily Telegraph article on 21 July ‘Sydney Trains drivers are off the rails with inefficiency’ was clearly the opening barrage of a Baird Government attack aimed at sacking drivers and privatising Sydney Trains. Former Liberal Government staffer Brendan Lyon of Infrastructure Partnerships Australia, who is heavily quoted in the article, has clearly been dispatched to demonise Sydney Trains drivers in order to facilitate the Baird Government’s wishes to move to driver-less trains and remove guards from the New Inter-Urban Fleet. As Mr Lyon confirms in his comments, once this occurs the Government can then move on privatising Sydney Trains by “allowing private companies to compete for the management” of the rail network.

“Similar private involvement had improved the service of Sydney Ferries,” he said.

just come clean and say it, Mr Claassens, Rail Tram and Bus Union NSW Secretary said.

Infrastructure Partnerships Australia has long held the view that Sydney passenger rail services should be privatised.

“Sydney’s passenger train drivers do important work. Each day they do what they do best and help over 1 million commuters get to work, school and home again safely.

Its 2012 Report ‘Franchising Passenger Rail Services in NSW: Options for Reform’ recommended that ‘open access arrangements be adopted, with different operators competing on the same network’ or that ‘a private operator granted an exclusive franchise to operate all services on a network’. However Mr Lyon minces his words, with all roads leading to privatisation. “If Mike Baird and the Liberals want to sack drivers and privatise Sydney Trains they should

“Our train drivers are highly skilled and experienced, and with up to 1,000 lives in their hands on every train, they need to be. “Sydney Trains have a strong safety record and the best ‘on-time’ running record in the country due in large part to the professionalism and dedication of Sydney Train drivers. “Sydney train drivers don’t need a lecture on ‘hard work’ from Liberal lobbyists like Mr Lyon earning half a million dollars per year.”

Page 18 RAIL & ROAD September 2016


South Coast Icon Retires After 57 Years Local media in the Illawarra ran stories recently of the retirement of Train Driver Bob Donovan, after 57 years on the job, who has worked trains through the steam, diesel and electric eras over the course of his long career. Bob Donovan from Dapto, started on the NSW Government Railways at Thirroul loco in 1959, from a long railway pedigree. His father was a train driver, his grandfather was a station master, his grandmother was a station gate keeper, two uncles were train guards, and his aunty worked in the buffet car on the Riverina Express. He finally retired on 20 August 2016, at age 74, after deciding that the shiftwork and electronics were too much. He told the Illawarra Mercury that it was his father that instilled in him a love of trains. “My dad’s family was all railways and I loved steam so I followed in his footsteps,” Mr Donovan said. “I used to ride around on the steam engine footplate with my dad and he taught me everything so I didn’t have much trouble when I joined the railways because I had the skills my dad taught me.” "I never noticed 57 years [of service] because I loved my job, but the day I joined, my dad said to me 'It's a good job and it'll look after you but you'll never get used to shift work'… he hit the nail on the head” he said. The toll of shiftwork and as new trains were planned and existing ones became more electronic, with big changes introduced over the last 10 years, Mr Donovan decided it was time to finish up. "When I joined the job, it was hands-on, but now it's brain work with computers and digital radios and I just couldn't get my head around it," he said to ABC Illawarra. "I thought I'd leave it up to the young blokes to do it — I saw slow changes as diesel came in and replaced steam [engines], then self-propelled trains and now it's going too quick for me and I can't get my brain around it. "I loved my job but I felt it was too much tension on me and I wasn't enjoying myself like I should, so it was time to move on." While at Thirroul as a trainee engineman, acting fireman Bob went to Binnaway and Ivanhoe working on the water train to the people in outback NSW. After returning to Thirroul Bob went on temporary loan to Brooklyn working bank engine working assisting trains up Cowan Bank. He was then appointed as a Fireman at Wollongong and became acting Steam and Diesel Observer, and also worked as a fuel man in Nowra. After completing block school on steam and diesel in Goulburn, he finally got his break on steam engines in Sydney but then another love called him back to the Illawarra and the South Coast line. “I wanted to come back to Wollongong because I met a

RAIL & ROAD September 2016

girl so I transferred back as a diesel driver and then I went down to Port Kembla there for two years and then have been here 43 years and haven’t moved,” he said. In his 57 years in the railways, one of his favourite memories actually comes a time when he was a child. He told the Illawarra Mercury that “The biggest thrill was when I saw my dad driving a steam engine and following the Queen’s train when she came out in the 1950s,” Mr Donovan said. “I said to myself ‘I want to be a steam driver’.” He’s still got a love of steam – despite retiring he still plans on taking charge of the Kiama picnic train from time to time and will likely be in the driver’s seat when the old steam train takes to the rail network for Photos courtesy of special occasions. Richard Whitford “I’m told I’m the number one steam driver in the state still allowed to drive steam in the railway network,” he said. "While I'm still healthy I'd like to get a couple more years doing steam engine and passing my knowledge onto the young blokes because I learnt from all the old steam drivers in my time." His workmates held a send off for Bob at Dapto Bowling Club at the end of August , where he was joined by friends and family members to celebrate his railway career. On his last official trip he was met by officials from the Department of Transport in Sydney, who presented him with a memento of his long career, and when he pulled into Wollongong for the last time, he was met by a group of friends and family waiting for him on the platform. We wish Bob Donovan a very happy and long retirement, and hope to see him in the cab on the occasional steam train from time to time long in to the future.

Page 19


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firststatesuper.com.au | 1300 650 873 Consider our product disclosure statement before making a decision about First State Super. Call us or visit our website for a copy. FSS Trustee Corporation ABN 11 118 202 672 ASFL 293340 is the trustee of the First State Superannuation Scheme ABN 53 226 460 365.


RTBU Holiday Park at Jervis Bay RTBU Members can also take advantage of the United Services Union’s Aquatic Resort at Port Macquarie The RTBU and USU have a reciprocal arrangement where members of each union can book holidays at the two locations, at member discounted rates. The USU owns the Aquatic holiday resort, in a glorious location on the Hastings River at Port Macquarie on the north coast of New South Wales. The resort consists of a Motel and a Caravan Park. Stay in comfort at the holiday resort and enjoy great discounts and great style while relaxing in what many say is the best climate in Australia. No matter what type of holiday you are after your needs are covered. Lots to do any time of the year! There are a lot of attractions in the area for you and your family – have a great game of Putt-Putt golf or try Jet boating, Parra Sailing, Waterslides, Wave Bowling & Lawn Bowls which are all within walking distance. And don’t forget the fishing!Please note – there are no tent sites at the Port Macquarie Caravan Park. You can contact the motel or caravan park by calling the Comfort Inn Aquatic Motel on 02 6583 7388 or the Aquatic Palms Caravan Park on 02 6584 9155 or check the website at www.aquaticinport.com.au You can also call the United Services Union’s Head Office on 02 9265 8211 for more information. Members must provide proof of identity plus their RTBU membership card at the time of arrival at Jervis Bay or Port Macquarie United Services Union or full rates will apply.

Located in the Booderee National Park, the RTBU Holiday Park at Jervis Bay, is just a 3 hour drive south from Sydney, but a world away… Each of the 14 self-contained units sleep up to a maximum of 6 people and rates are based on a family of 2 adults and 4 children. Other rates are available, however all units only have the capacity to sleep 6 people. Units have a double bed, two single beds and a set of double bunks. You will need to bring your own sheets as only mattress protectors, quilts and pillows are supplied. The units contain a digital television, an oven, microwave, fridge, crockery, cutlery, glassware, pots and pans as well as basic cooking utensils. Make sure you come prepared as the closest grocery shop is in Vincentia, a 30 minute drive away. The RTBU Holiday Park facilities available to all guests include a Boat Ramp, Undercover Bar-B-Q area with seating, Tennis Court and a Coin Operated Laundry. There are various swimming spots to enjoy and natural areas to explore, suitable for all the family. Kangaroos, possums, wallabies, kookaburras, bandicoots, echidnas and rosellas visit the grounds of the Holiday Park daily. Enjoy fishing for whiting, flathead and bream from the calm shores or take a quick walk to experience beach fishing for tailor and salmon on the pristine Bherwerre Beach. The boat ramp allows direct access via the Sussex Inlet Channel to St Georges Basin or outside into the famous fishing grounds of Jervis Bay. Bookings can be made by telephoning the RTBU Office on (02) 9264 2511.

Booderee National Park & Bherwerre Beach

Like Us on Facebook at

www.facebook. com/RTBUNSW

RAIL & ROAD September 2016

In the Dhurga language, Booderee means “Bay of Plenty” and the area is the home to the people of Wreck Bay. The Booderee National Park has the only Aboriginal owned Botanic Garden in Australia. The gardens are well known for providing a centre for interpreting plants used by the local aboriginal people. The Park is also home to 200 species of birds, over 30 different native mammals including 10 species of bats, 37 reptiles, 17 amphibians and at least 180 species of fish. The White-Bellied Sea Eagle is a special bird at Booderee as it is the guardian of the Koori people of Wreck Bay and features on the Booderee National Park logo. This spectacular eagle has a white head, rump and underparts, dark or slate grey back and wings. It has an awe-inspiring wingspan of up to 2.2 metres. Within the Booderee National Park you will find beautiful white sandy beaches at Green Patch, Murrays, Steamers, Caves and Bherwerre. Bherwerre is home to some of the Boderee National Parks rarer seabirds. Pods of Bottle-nose dolphins are often spotted playing in the waves at the Sussex Inlet Entrance and Humpback whales have been known to enter the protected areas close to shore.

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On the Campaign Trail #FixMyRide campaign makes its mark After a long period of vote counting, the dust has finally settled on one of the closest Federal elections in decades. The Coalition Government has been returned – but with a threadbare majority in the Lower House. Malcolm Turnbull has claimed a “mandate” for his aggressive antiunion policies – including his policy of moving long-distance freight off rail and onto flag-of-convenience ships – but he will struggle to deal with an increasingly hostile Senate, where the Nick Xenophon Team and Paul Hanson’s One Nation will wield enormous power over the Government’s policy agenda. Meanwhile, the Labor Party has picked up 13 seats, and will go into the new Parliament with more MPs and, we hope, a renewed sense of purpose.

RTBU campaign The RTBU’s #FixMyRide campaign played its role in the election result. We targeted our energy and resources in a series of key seats – through advertising in newspapers and on social media, distributing flyers and petitions, and organising actions at train stations. Our activist members were also directly

involved in the ACTU’s Build a Better Future campaign, getting out to pre-poll booths and on election day. We encouraged people to think about rail and public transport when casting their vote – and ultimately to put the Liberals and Nationals last. Our target seats were chosen on several criteria. The seats were: • Marginal seats that were “in play”; • Contained candidates that were supportive of the RTBU and our industries; • Included a relatively high number of transport workers; and • Were places where public transport and rail freight issues were of particular interest to voters.

Congratulations to everyone who got involved RTBU members are to be congratulated for the way they picked up the #FixMyRide campaign and ran with it. Through this campaign we’ve not only pressured our politicians, we’ve raised the profile of our Union and built our presence on social media. At the end of the day, the Coalition scraped back into Government, and it remains determined to implement

its anti-worker policies. In that sense, the fight is not over, and our #FixMyRide campaign will go on.

Snapshot of results Here’s a quick snapshot of the campaign and how it played out across our target seats in NSW: Seat

Actions

Result

New England (NSW)

Independent Tony Windsor recorded a Print advertising, social media advertising, media strong swing, but Deputy Prime Minister commentary Barnaby Joyce retained his seat.

Patterson (NSW)

Social media advertising, Fix My Ride flyers, Labor candidate Meryl Swanson direct mailout to members, and direct assistance defeated the Liberals’ Karen Howard. to candidate

Lindsay (NSW)

Social media advertising, train station actions, fix Labor candidate Emma Husar defeated My Ride flyers, direct mailout to members, and sitting Liberal MP Fiona Scott direct assistance to candidate

Greenway (NSW)

Fix My Ride flyers, train station actions, direct assistance to candidate

Labor’s Michelle Rowland successfully retained the seat.

Macquarie (NSW)

Direct assistance to candidate

Labor’s Susan Templeman defeated sitting Liberal MP Louise Markus

Page 22 RAIL & ROAD September 2016


RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee Survey Results The RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee distributed a survey which ran until the 3rd June 2016. The purpose behind the survey was to assess thoughts, opinions and feelings in relation to the female members’ views about the RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee (WCC). There were twelve questions in total of which some were opinion. A selection of the questions and some of the There were twelveare questions in total of which some were opinion. A selection of the responses as below; RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee Survey Results

The RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee distributed a survey which ran until the 3rd June 2016. The purpose behind the survey was to assess thoughts, opinions and feelings in relation to the female members’ views about the RTBU Womens’ Campaign Committee (WCC). questions and some of the responses are as below; Are you aware of the RTBU WCC?

40 %

60 %

Yes

There appeared to be a lack of awareness of the RTBU WCC. Yes 29

No

No 43

Total 72

If available, would you use a modesty kit made up of a sample jar, paper bag, SheePee and gloves? The results to this question illustrate the participants would use a modesty kit if there was one available. It is noted that this question is not applicable to STA employees.

Yes

46% 54%

No

Yes 38

Are you aware of the RTBU WCC FaceBook Page? 11% Yes

No 33

Total 71

This result indicates that there is a lack of awareness about the RTBU WCC FaceBook Page. Yes 8

No 89%

No 64

Total 72

Would you prefer to be swab tested? This result illustrates the vast majority of participants would prefer to swab tested rather than the current practice. It is noted that this isn’t applicable for STA employees.

7% Yes

Would you like to see a WCC quarterly newsletter?

93%

No

The survey illustrates that there would be a significant amount of support for the publication of a quarterly newsletter. 10%

Yes 68

No 5

Total 73

Yes No

Yes 62

90%

No 7

Total 69 Would you be willing to give the WCC a hand with the campaign for swab testing?

Have you ever been urine-drug tested whilst menstruating?

71%

29%

Yes No

The survey results demonstrated that 29% of the women who participated in the survey were urine drug tested whilst menstruating. Yes 21

No 52

34%

Total 73

Yes 66%

No

The results illustrates the majority of the participants that completed the survey would be willing to assist with any correctly endorsed campaign for the introduction of swab testing. Yes 48

No 25

Total 73

Would you like to be involved in the WCC?

50%

50%

Yes

The results illustrate that half of the participants that completed the survey wish to be more involved in the WCC.

No

Yes 35

No 35

Total 70

The WCC Committee will be following up on all the results and suggestions for this survey. Participants who indicated that they wish to be contacted will be. However, if members have any further questions or comments please contact their local Delegate or the RTBU office on 02 9264 2511 or email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au

Women’s Campaign Committee on the Road The Women’s Campaign Committee had a change of venue recently when it held its meeting in Newcastle. Guest speakers who addressed the meeting were NSW Labor General Secretary, Kaila Murnain, who discussed issues leading in to the next state election, and in particular, the Baird Government’s appetite for privatization. The other guest speaker was Ange Moore from the MUA, who along, with many other seafarers, lost her job when the decision was made by the Federal Governemtn to allow foreign crew to work Australian ships in Australian waters.

RAIL & ROAD September 2016

The WCC Committee will be following up on all the results and suggestions for this survey. Participants who indicated that they wish to be contacted will be. However, if members have any further questions or comments please contact their local Delegate or the RTBU office on 02 9264 2511 or email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au

Page 23


Safety Matters Injured Workers Support Network Unveils Plaque Honouring Injured Workers On Sunday the 19th June 2016 the Injured Workers Support Network (IWSN) held an unveiling of a plaque honouring injured workers. The purpose of the plaque is to give a solidity to the struggles of people injured at work, a permanent reminder to our world that the struggle is real, and that they are not alone in that struggle. The plaque reads as: This plaque unveiled on 19th June 2016 “Injured Workers Day”, has been established to remember all workers who have suffered a workplace injury. We remember those workers who in the pursuit of a living wage have been disabled and had their capacity to provide for their families damaged. In remembering these workers we strive for safer workplaces and dignity for those who are harmed. The location of the plaque is in Holroyd Park set amongst the ruins of the old Merrylands brickworks factory, a permanent link to the industrial part of NSW.

The ceremony was opened by Rowen Kernebone (Injured Workers Support Network Coordinator) followed by an address by Emma Maiden (Assistant Secretary, Unions NSW). In addition, Simon Andrews and Dwayne Hayes who are both injured workers performed the unveiling. With the ceremony concluded, it was time to enjoy some sausage sandwiches, drinks Emma Maiden, with children being entertained UnionsNSW and by a clown who performed Rowan Kernebone magic tricks and face painting. The day was a great success which showed support for injured workers by union members and their families whilst highlighting the cost of workers being injured at work to all.

Charles Lagaaia Tragically Dies In June this year, Charles Lagaaia was working on the T1 Western Line at Clyde when he was struck by a train just after 6am. Authorities are investigating how he died completing "important maintenance work". Mr Lagaaia's friends and family paid tribute to him on social media. "May the Good Lord wrap his arms around your family [and] comfort them through all that's ahead," Rosita Duffy wrote on Facebook. One relative, Gloria Lagaaia, wrote "fly high uncle". "Now your taken away from us so suddenly ... but without a doubt families are forever Uncle," she wrote. Sydney Trains chief executive Howard Collins and NSW TrainLink chief executive Rob Mason released a joint statement expressing their ‘deepest sympathy’ to the employee’s friends and family. The statement said: We’re greatly saddened by the tragic news this morning and our deepest sympathy goes out to the friends and family of the employee. The following statement was issued by RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva and RTBU NSW Secretary Alex Claassens, on the day that Charles Lagaaia was struck by a

train while carrying out track maintenance work. "Rail workers are shattered after the death of a colleague, Charles Lagaaia, in Sydney this morning. The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) sends its profound and heart-felt condolences to Mr Lagaaia’s family and friends. RTBU representatives had been on the ground since early this morning, offering support to track workers and the crew of the train involved in the incident. Many of our members are hurting today. They have lost a colleague and a mate in very tragic circumstances. The workers who witnessed the incident, and the driver of the train, are all doing it very tough. We are doing everything we can to support those involved through this difficult time. This incident is sad reminder that safety on the rail network can never be taken for granted. All workers have the right to go home safely after a shift."

Page 24 RAIL & ROAD September 2016


Whistlestop Penrith Loco sends off five of its finest On 13th August over 120 friends and family gathered at Penrith Paceway to farewell five of Penrith’s finest Drivers, Norm Mendham, Peter O’Leary, Peter Kschenka, Ron Van Der Zee and Dave Goonewardene. Combined, they have over 160 years of experience. Many great speeches were made about some of their more memorable moments which our retirees would rather have hoped had been forgotten. There was a lot of laughter and even a tear or two. We wish our five retirees all the best for the future in their retirement.

Peter O'Leary, Peter Kschenka, and Ron Van Der Zee with their RTBU Plaques

RTBU Central Station Staff Retiring Farewell, Goodbye and Good Luck to five RTBU Station Staff Members On the 4th August 2016 the RTBU said goodbye to long serving Station Staff members based at Central Station. These amazing station staff members will leave a legacy of 170 years of membership combined. The RTBU would like to wish a great retirement to the following people, Noela Wallace, Ian Armstrong, Adel (Eddie) Farhat, Abi Abdulla- Abdulla and Yousef El Hage. Sydney Trains hosted a presentation for the retired members, which was attended by RTBU Senior Vice-President Craig Turner and retired organiser, Michael Farhat. Craig addressed the attendees outlining the magnificent contribution by RTBU members and the great legacy they leave. At the conclusion Craig made a presentation to the members.

Adele (Eddie) Farhat with Craig Turner

RAIL & ROAD September 2016

Craig Turner, Noela Wallace, Ian Armstrong, Yousef El Hage, Abi Abdulla-Abdulla, and Michael Farhat

Page 25


Bruce Russell Calls It a Day Retired member John Aquilina provided some valuable background information for the following. Bruce Russell started on the job with the State Rail Authority on the 23/12/1971 at Valley Heights, as a trainee engineman unqualified. He was promoted to Trainee Engineman on the 19/02/72 and stayed at the Valley until he took his appointment as a fireman at Enfield on the 23/9/74 and promoted to (after new classification) to Engine CL3/ acting driver on the 22/10/77. He returned to Valley Heights on the 30/04/79 and remained there till he was promoted to Driver Engineman Class 5. The Valley Heights Depot was the home of the 46 Class Electric Locomotive and was predominantly a bank engine depot assisting freight trains up the mountain to Katoomba. Bruce then transferred to Enfield in March 1980.

In May 1987 he transferred to Central ETR and later transferred to Penrith until he decided to move down to (gods country) the South Coast and started at Wollongong InterUrban Depot in May 2002.

Vale Colin S Brettle

Bruce finally decided to retire in July 2016 with 44 years and 7 months under his belt. The union join Bruce’s friends and colleagues in wishing him a very long and happy retirement.

Friend and colleague Retired Driver John Hughes provided the following tribute.

Colin was a true Railway Man!! Colin left school and joined the railways at the age of 15 and work and lived the railway life. He started his career at Enfield Steam Depot in 1963. Colin transferred to Delec 1966 and progressed though the ranks to Driver until 1983 when he went to the ETR at Penrith, where he stayed until 2006.For a new life and change he headed to Newcastle on the Intercity Trains, for a rather short stay and retired in July 2008. His retirement was short-lived, as trains were in his blood, and he found work with Silverton for another short stint from November 2008 to June 2010, before finally calling it quits. After this it was time to pack the van and travel with his wife Helen which he loved doing and many a times I joined him. Colin will be sadly missed by his friends and work mates.

Vale Alan Thompson

Retired Member Greg Price provided the following.

Alan Thompson passed away in June this year. I attended his funeral at Kiama. Alan worked for Qube and was based at their Dubbo depot. Alan was an excellent engineman and was happy to help fellow engineman out if they couldn't fix a problem with a loco. If Alan couldn't fix it you knew the shed staff were going to have their work cut out for them. He had many friends in New Zealand, mostly railway people, and loved the south island. I was lucky enough to accompany him on one of his trips in 2011. Another love of his was historic warbirds and our trip coincided with the Classic Fighters Air Show in Omaka. It was a great trip because Alan knew where to go. He continued to drive trains until about three weeks before he passed away and was really looking forward to celebrating fifty years as an engineman later this year. Sadly he didn't make it. He was a staunch supporter of the AFULE/RTBU and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Page 26 RAIL & ROAD September 2016


Join the RTBU Retired Members Association Many retired members continue to receive copies of the journal Rail & Road, and take an interest in the life of the union. Many have also said that they would like to maintain a closer connection and involvement with the work of the union. The RTBU Retired Members Association was established to provide a forum for former members to meet, work on campaigns, address issues of particular relevance for retirees and to identify ways of assisting, supporting and contributing to the work of the union. It is expected that the Retired Members Association will function independently and pursue issues that it identifies as priorities. If you are a retired member of our union, we would like you to consider joining the Retired Members Association. Membership forms are available from the RTBU Head Office, Level 4, 321 Pitt Street, Sydney or on the union website: www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au

For more information, contact Peter O’Connor at the union office on (02) 9264 2511 For more information, contact Don McKechnie on 0409 813 643 or the union office on (02) 9264 2511

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raIL & rOaD June 2010

RTBU Express Website

www.rtbuexpress.com.au RAIL & ROAD September 2016

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We’ve got your back Proudly supporting the NSW Branch of Rail, Tram and Bus Union and their members.

RTBU Members are entitled to a free, initial consultation and discounted rates when referred by their union.

GET IN TOUCH Contact the RTBU on 02 9264 2511 for a referral to Slater and Gordon Lawyers


AM AND

RTBU Change of DeTails foRm

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Change of Personal Details

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Surname

Given Name(s)

Gender Male Female

Street Address

Suburb

Post Code

Home Telephone Number

Work Telephone Number

Date Of Birth

Mobile Number

Email (work) Email (home)

Employer

Employee Number

Occupation: Eg Train Driver

RTBU Member Number

Work Location/ Depot

Date Commenced

Employment Status Fulltime

Part time

Casual

Change in Banking Details iMPortant Members need to specify the date of their next pay so that when the membership fee debit occurs on a friday there is sufficient money in the account to ensure the transaction is not dishonoured which results in you then being charged an additional fee by your bank.

Next Pay Week

Details of Bank aCCoUnt to Be DeBiteD Name of Financial Institution (Bank)

Branch where account is held

Account in the name(s) of Bank/State Branch Number: (BSB Six Digits)

Account Number (Maximum of 9 digits)

Details of CreDit CarD to Be DeBiteD Credit Card Type: Eg Visa, MasterCard, AMX

Credit Card Number

Credit card in the name of

Expiry Date

I/We authorise and request the Rail Tram and Bus Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/our account described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system. I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in accordance with this service agreement. SIGNATURE

sUBMit

DATE Please email your completed form to nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au by using the submit button Post: Level 4, 321 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000 or fax: 02 9261 1342


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Membership Enquiries Telephone (02) 9264 2511

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RTBU MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FORM

AM AND

UN

ION

Surname

Given Name(s)

Gender Male Female

Street Address

Suburb

Post Code

Home Telephone Number

Work Telephone Number

Date Of Birth

Mobile Number

Email (work) Email (home)

Employer

Employee Number

Date Commenced

Occupation: Eg Train Driver

Work Location/Depot

Employment Status Fulltime

Part time

Casual

I, ___________________________________________________ the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Industry Union, an Organisation of employees registered under the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009 as amended, and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules & By-Laws for the time being of the Union. Signature of Applicant _______________________________________________________ Dated _____________________ I, __________________________________________________ the undersigned, hereby apply to become a member of the Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Union NSW, an Organisation registered under the Industrial Relations Act 1996 (NSW) as amended, and hereby undertake to comply with the Rules and By-Laws for the time being of the Union. Signature of Applicant _______________________________________________________ Dated _____________________ 1. I agree to pay $ __________ via

DIRECT DEBIT fortnightly; OR

CREDIT CARD fortnightly or any other amounts as may be determined from time to time in accordance with the Rules of the Union. I certify that I have received a copy of Rule 14, Notification of Resignation From Membership. 2. I/We authorise and request the Rail Tram & Bus Union, until further notice in writing to arrange for my/ our account described in this direct debit authority, to be debited with any amounts which the debit user may properly debit or charge me/us through the direct debit system. 3. I/We authorise my employer to notify the Rail, Tram & Bus Union of any change of address during my employment. 4. I/We authorise and request this direct debit authority to remain in force until cancelled, deferred or otherwise altered in accordance with this service agreement. Signature of Applicant _____________________________________________________ Dated ____________________ DETAILS OF THE ACCOUNT TO BE DEBITED

Account Name OR Name on Credit Card __________________________________________________________ Financial Institution ______________________________________________ Branch ___________ Date of next pay week __________________________ IMPORTANT Members need to specify the date of their next pay so that when the membership fee debit occurs on a Friday there is sufficient money in the account to ensure the transaction is not dishonoured which results in you then being charged an additional fee by your bank.

Bank / State Branch No. (BSB)

Card Type

MasterCard

Account No. / If Credit Union Membership No. _____________

Visa

Expiry Date

/

Credit Card Number

Please submit this Form to the RTBU’s Membership Officer by email nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au OR Mail to Level 4, 321 Pitt Street Sydney NSW 2000 OR Fax (02) 9261 1342


IMPORTANT PLEASE KEEP THE FOLLOWING FOR YOUR REFERENCE

4. A notice delivered to the Branch Secretary shall be deemed to have been received by when it was delivered.

RESIGNATION FROM MEMBERSHIP

5. A notice of resignation that has been received by the Union is not invalid because it was not addressed and delivered the Branch Secretary.

2. A notice of resignation from membership of the Union takes effect:– (a) where the member ceases to be eligible to become or remain a member of the Union (i) on the day on which the notice is received by the Union or (ii) on the day specified in the notice, which is a day not earlier than the day when the member ceases to be eligible to become a member, whichever is later; or (b) In any other case:– (i) at the end of two weeks; or (ii) on the day specified in the notice: whichever is later. 3. Any subscriptions, fees, fines and levies owing but not paid by a former member of the Union in relation to a period before the member’s resignation took effect, may be sued for and recovered in the name of the Union in a Court of competent jurisdiction, as a debt due to the Union.

What happens if I get pregnant, sick for an extended period or take leave without pay? If you are on unpaid maternity leave, sick or are off work for a substantial period of time you can seek to have your membership fees suspended until you return to work by giving written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch under Clause 11 (8): (8) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Rule, should any member during any financial year be without pay owing to ill health or to other causes which a Branch Executive regards as warranting special consideration, then the Branch Executive may grant the member exemption from payment of all or any contributions imposed in accordance with the Rules for all or part of the period during which he/ she is without pay. During the period of the exemption, the member shall be deemed to be financial.

The Rail, Tram & Bus Union is bound by the Privacy Act and your information can only used for RTBU processes and cannot be used for any other purposes.

AM AND

BU S

Level 4, 321 Pitt Street Sydney NSW 2000

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1. A member may resign from membership of the Union by written notice addressed and delivered to the Secretary of his/her Branch.

6. Resignation from membership of the Union is valid even if it is not affected in accordance with this Rule, if the member is informed in writing by or on behalf of the Union that the resignation has been accepted.

R AI

OF THE RTBU

Tel (02) 9264 2511 Fax (02) 9264 1342 E-mail nswho@rtbu-nsw.asn.au Website www.rtbu-nsw.asn.au

UN

ION


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*Terms and conditions apply. **See rthealthfund.com.au/group-gift-cards for more details. ^Prices are indicative, based on a single, Qld-based membership, receiving a 26.791% rebate with no Lifetime Health Cover loading and $500 excess.

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